A Louisiana resident has died from H5N1 bird flu, marking the first death from the virus in US, according to the centers for disease control and prevention (CDC). As of January 6, 2025, 66 human H5N1 cases have been reported in the US since 2024, and 67 since 2022.
The CDC said that this death, while tragic, was not unexpected due to the virus’s potential to cause severe illness. Globally, the world health organization has recorded over 950 H5N1 cases, with roughly half resulting in fatalities.
“CDC is saddened by Louisiana’s report that a person previously hospitalized with severe avian influenza A(H5N1) illness (“H5N1 bird flu”) has passed away. While tragic, a death from H5N1 bird flu in the United States is not unexpected because of the known potential for infection with these viruses to cause severe illness and death,” the agency said.
Since 2024, there have been 66 confirmed human H5N1 cases in the US. The total number of US cases rises to 67 since 2022, according to the CDC.
CDC continues to assess the risk to the general public as low, stressing that no person-to-person spread has been identified. The Louisiana case, like most H5 infections, stemmed from animal-to-human exposure. The CDC has not detected concerning changes in the virus among birds or other animals that would elevate human health risks. However, those with occupational or recreational contact with infected animals face a higher risk of infection.
The CDC is working with state and local partners to investigate H5 cases, conduct surveillance, and monitor the virus for changes that could increase its transmissibility or severity in humans. They are also monitoring for any resistance to antiviral medications or vaccines.
